Large Dog Breeds

These heavy hitters pack a punch in the size department. German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Mastiffs and Labrador Retrievers are just a selection of the breeds that fall into the category of sixty pounds and up. These large breeds require a bit more space to stretch their legs or even just to turn around. Typically requiring outdoor space or regular walks, a large breed requires an owner who is willing to handle big energy and bigger poop. If you are looking for a dog that won’t be blown over by a strong wind, a large breed is for you.

The Irish Red and White Setter is believed to be the older of the two Irish Setter breeds, dating back to the late 1700s. The popularity of its solid-red cousin overshadowed it for many years until it nearly reached extinction.

Long before Big Red starred in the movie of the same name, the Irish Setter was a headliner both in the field and on the bench. With a long, lean head, well-feathered ears, tail, legs and underbody, and a strong ground-covering trot, the Irish Setter looks every inch an aristocrat.

Although the Komondor may look like a large dust mop on legs, this is a big, muscular dog with a commanding, dignified attitude. A native of Hungary, the breed's standout feature is its long white corded coat, which protects the dog against the elements and from injury by predators.

The Kuvasz is another Hungarian breed with a long history. The beautiful white dogs were used for hunting, herding and flock guarding, a job the breed still does with much success. This is a large working dog, with males measuring 28 to 29.5 inches at the shoulder, females 2 inches less.

No one quite knows the origins of the Louisiana Catahoula Leopard Dog, but these unusual and unique dogs have been around for a long time. One theory suggests that early Spanish expeditions, in search of gold and adventure, brought along Spanish war dogs.

The Maremma Sheepdog has all of the attributes essential for an effective guard: strength, independence, stamina, courage and a strong sense of "ownership." This Italian flock guard bears a strong resemblance to the Kuvasz, and the two breeds probably share the same ancient origin.

Sometimes known as the Old English Mastiff, the Mastiff is an ancient breed, associated with Babylonians, Marco Polo, Hannibal, King Henry VIII, and Elizabeth I. Mastiffs are the likely ancestors of the mountain dog breeds, such as the Saint Bernard.

The massive, solid Neapolitan Mastiff is an imposing hulk of a dog, and it's meant to be. A writer during the days of the Roman Empire described the ideal guard dog for the house as visible during daylight hours and able to fade into the shadows at night to attack without being seen.

The Newfie is a robust, family-loving dog, equally at home in the water and on land. This large, strong, active dog is capable of heavy work, yet the breed's gentleness, even temper and devotion make the Newf an ideal companion for child or adult.

This diminutive spitz breed from Sweden is likely descended from small hunting dogs that lived in ancient times with the hunters of the Nordic region. Natural selection ensured that only the fittest dogs would reach maturity and procreate.

Shaggy, boisterous and friendly, the Otterhound is uncommon but makes a devoted companion. This breed has been known in Britain since the early 13th century, where it was used to hunt otter, which robbed rivers of their fish.

The Presa Canario, also called the Dogo Canario or Canary Dog, was historically a guardian and cattle driving dog. The breed originated on the Canary Islands, a group of Spanish volcanic islands that sits about 100 miles northwest of Africa.

The Pyrenean Mastiff, a molossian-type dog, orginated in northeastern Spain as a guardian of livestock, people and property. This breed is charming, docile and sweet to its owners and friends, but aggressive with strangers, warning them off with its deep, intense bark.

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